Meet Aster Graves | Oddity artist and alternative model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Aster Graves and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Aster, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Driven by my fervor for unconventional and thought-provoking artistic expressions, I ventured into Oddity art. This decision was rooted in a passion for pushing boundaries – creepy dolls are not something the majority of the public understands or necessarily even likes. Oddities are an expression of the darker side of life, an examination of things that aren’t always viewed as beautiful. I really enjoy providing something to the niche market of weirdos who appreciate the macabre and different side of life. Using materials that would otherwise contribute to the landfill is really important to me as well. I take old dolls, bones, frames and boxes and turn them into incredible new works of art that someone will proudly display in their home. It is a fulfilling experience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I make oddities with bones and porcelain dolls. I take the old and broken and breathe new life into them so they don’t end up in a landfill somewhere rotting through time. All of my materials are ethically sourced and most are found by me when I go hiking or foraging. My dolls are mostly donated; it seems like everyone has a relative who collected porcelain dolls and then passed them on and the recipient has a phobia or general dislike of them. They would normally be thrown away or stashed in a closet, missing out on life in the dark alone. So I take them, repaint them and give them a new chance. My art has evolved quite a lot over time. I started out as just knitting, then I started painting miniatures with my husband, then I started doing resin and finally I have arrived where I am now. I don’t think growing as an artist or small business is ever easy, but it’s worth it. I am able to utilize things I learned in past crafts and I think it brings a higher element to my finished pieces. The biggest lesson I have learned is not to give up; it can be discouraging especially when there is a slow business time, but everything is circular, it will return again. Trust the process.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We would definitely go hiking – there are tons of trails around the metroplex! I would take them to all my favorite witchy shops like Embodii Crystals or Hemlock Haus and these would be dual purpose stops so they can meet some of my favorite people too!

Food – there is SO MUCH good food here. I would probably take them to Korean BBQ and Sushi SoHo. If we want a more laid back experience or if we want to catch a game, I would take them to the Londoner for drinks and good pub food.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are SO many people who have helped me along my way. Kourtnii with Embodii Crystals really got me started doing art markets and encouraging me to peruse my art dreams. Sarah Ellis Hardcastle and all of the staff at Dynamite Dames Photography have helped me find my confidence and love for my weird little self. Vee’s Artistry is an amazing makeup artist and stylist. They have all been such huge inspirations to me and helped me in various way along my journey. I wouldn’t be where I am without any of them!

Website: linktr.ee/astersattic

Instagram: instagram.com/asters_attic

Facebook: facebook.com/astersattic

Other: ticktok.com/@astersattic

Image Credits
All photos by me